Discover and Shortlist Your Perfect Baby Names!
Indian names are rooted in cultural, religious, and linguistic diversity, drawing from languages like Sanskrit, Hindi, Urdu, and Tamil. Many names reflect virtues, mythology, or spiritual significance, such as Arjun (courage) or Lakshmi (wealth). Regional naming traditions often intertwine with astrological beliefs, making Indian names deeply meaningful and unique.
| Name | Meaning | Origins | Gender | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mahendrakumar | Mahendrakumar: Indian name symbolizing strength, leadership, and cultural heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Mahendraprasad | Mahendraprasad means "gift of Lord Indra," reflecting Indian heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Maheshwari | Maheshwari: Indian name meaning "belonging to Lord Shiva," culturally significant. | Indian | Girl | |
| Mahima | Mahima: unisex Indian name meaning "greatness" or "glory," popular. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Mahindra | Mahindra: masculine Indian name meaning "great lord," symbolizing leadership. | Indian | Boy | |
| Mahit | Mahit: Indian name meaning "intelligent," gaining popularity in South Asia. | Indian | Girl | |
| Mahua | Mahua: Unisex Indian name, derived from sacred, fragrant Mahua tree. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Mahul | Mahul: Indian name meaning "charming," gaining popularity for boys. | Indian | Boy | |
| Mahuwa | Mahuwa: Indian name meaning "intoxicating flower," gaining global recognition. | Indian | Girl | |
| Mahwa | Mahwa: Unique Indian name meaning "intoxicating," linked to sacred tree. | Indian | Girl | |
| Maithilee | Maithilee: Elegant name meaning "princess of Mithila," gaining popularity globally. | Indian | Girl | |
| Maithili | Maithili: Feminine name from Mithila, meaning "friend from Mithila." | Indian | Girl | |
| Maiti | Maiti: Unisex name meaning "motherly love" with Sanskrit origins. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Maitili | Maitili: Indian name meaning "sweetness," gaining popularity for its elegance. | Indian | Girl | |
| Maitra | Maitra: Indian unisex name meaning "friend," symbolizing companionship and camaraderie. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Maitri | Maitri: Unisex name meaning friendship, embodying love and kindness values. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Maitry | Maitry: Indian name meaning "friendship," symbolizing companionship and connection. | Indian | Girl | |
| Maity | Maity: Bengali surname meaning "one who is skilled or talented." | Bengali, Indian | Unisex | |
| makaiya | Makaiya means "gift from God," originating from Hebrew roots. | American, Arabic, Biblical, Hebrew, Indian, Islamic, Persian | Female | |
| Makhan | Makhan: Indian name meaning "butter," associated with males, culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Makunda | Makunda: Indian name meaning "Lord Krishna," symbolizing kindness and heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Mala | Mala: Indian name meaning "necklace," associated with wealth and prosperity. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Malajit | Malajit means "victorious garland," symbolizing success and cultural heritage. | Indian, Sikh | Boy | |
| Malathi | Malathi: Indian name meaning "jasmine flower," elegant and culturally significant. | Indian | Girl | |
| Malavikaa | Malavikaa: Indian name meaning "jasmine" or "princess," gaining popularity. | Indian | Girl | |
| maleia | Maleia means "calm" or "peaceful"; origin is uncertain, possibly Hebrew. | Amharic, Arabic, Biblical, Greek, Hebrew, Indian, Persian | Female | |
| Malini | Malini: Indian name meaning "fragrant," associated with beauty and purity. | Indian | Girl | |
| Malles | Malles: Unique Indian name, male gender, culturally rich heritage significance. | Indian | Boy | |
| Mallu | Mallu: Indian name meaning "jasmine flower," unique and feminine. | Indian | Girl | |
| Malti | Amharic, Ethiopian, Hindi, Indian, Sanskrit |
The name 'Indian' originates from the misidentification of the Americas by Christopher Columbus. Columbus believed he had reached the Indian subcontinent when he arrived in the New World. The term stuck and was used to refer to the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Native Americans were called Indians because Columbus mistakenly thought he had landed in India. This error led to the use of the term 'Indian' to describe the native people he encountered. The name has persisted throughout history despite its inaccuracy.
The term 'Indian' is considered inappropriate and inaccurate for referring to Native Americans. Many people prefer 'Native American' or 'Indigenous Peoples' to more accurately reflect their cultural and historical identity. The term 'Indian' can be seen as a relic of colonial misnaming.
Columbus called the inhabitants of the New World 'Indians' because he believed he had reached the Indies. The Indies was a term used at the time to describe Asia's Southeast region, including India. This misnomer has had a lasting impact on the nomenclature of the Americas' indigenous peoples.
The term 'Indian' evolved to refer not only to the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean but also to those of the entire American continent. Over time, it became a general term used by European colonizers. Today, it is used in various contexts, including the legal names of some tribes and in government documents.
Alternatives to using the term 'Indian' for Native Americans include 'Native American,' 'Indigenous Peoples,' and specific tribal names. These terms are more culturally sensitive and accurate. They are widely accepted and used in contemporary discourse.
Native Americans have diverse opinions about the term 'Indian,' with some accepting it and others finding it offensive. The preference for terminology often depends on individual and community perspectives. Many advocate for self-identification and the use of specific tribal names.
The term 'Indian' still has legal status in the United States, as it is used in federal law and documents. It is found in the names of legislation, such as the Indian Civil Rights Act. However, there is a push towards using more accurate and respectful terminology in legal contexts.
The term 'Indian' relates to people from India in its original geographical context. However, due to Columbus's mistake, it also came to be associated with the indigenous peoples of the Americas. This dual usage can sometimes lead to confusion in conversation and writing.
The use of the term 'Indian' has changed over time, with a growing awareness and sensitivity to its historical inaccuracy and colonial roots. Many institutions and individuals now prefer terms that more accurately represent the people to whom they refer. The shift reflects a broader movement towards recognizing and respecting indigenous cultures and identities.
